Casey Mize Could Seek One-Year Deal to Rebuild Value

Casey Mize may opt for a one-year contract in free agency as he tries to restore his market value after a difficult second half of the 2026 season. The deal has been projected at $15 million, up from the $1.8 million he earned last season to avoid arbitration.

San Diego acquired the right-hander from Detroit at the trade deadline after he posted a 2.70 ERA across 16 starts for the Tigers. The Padres gave up left-handed prospects Kash Mayfield and Jackson Wolf in the deal, which also brought infielder and outfielder Gage Workman to San Diego.

Mize struggled with the Padres, recording a 7.46 ERA in 10 starts and allowing 37 earned runs over 44⅔ innings. His performance came after a 2025 All-Star season, and his average fastball velocity was about 1.3 mph below the previous year's mark. A right ankle sprain placed him on the injured list before the postseason.

A short-term contract could give Mize a chance to demonstrate that his earlier form is still attainable before seeking a longer deal. Whether San Diego would offer him a return is unclear; the team's rotation could influence that decision as the offseason develops.